October 14, 2017

Exeter Chiefs 24 - 15 Glasgow Warriors

Champions Cup match played at Sandy Park on Saturday October 14th 2017 | No comments

Dave Rennie was left frustrated after the defeat to ExeterGlasgow Warriors went down to Exeter Chiefs in tonight's European Cup opener at Sandy Park.

The result brings an end to Glasgow's undefeated start to the 2017/18 season and makes next weekend's meeting with Leinster at Scotstoun a must-win game.

Things looked good for Warriors when they shot out to an early 10-0 lead through Tommy Seymour's try and Finn Russell's boot.

But the Chiefs reeled in Glasgow with close-range scores from Harry Williams and Jonny Hill to lead at half-time.

Lee Jones' try reignited Warriors' hopes but Sam Simmonds crossed late to deny them even a bonus point.

The Chiefs dominated territory and possession but only led by two points going into the closing minutes before Simmond's score.

Mistakes and a 12-5 penalty count in the host's favour meant Warriors struggled to impose themselves on the game and left head coach Dave Rennie frustrated.

"They played a lot of territory," said Rennie after the game. "They choked us down our end of the field and came up with three tries just going around the edge but they did it well.

"It was frustrating not to win. It was an arm wrestle, at 17-15 we had a couple of opportunities but we just didn't hang on to enough ball and build enough pressure.

"They shaded us in the kicking game and ended up winning the territory battle."

Now Glasgow must face Leinster at home next weekend after the Dublin club were boosted by a bonus point 24-17 win over Montpellier. Is it, he was asked, a must win match?

"It was always a must win game, because it's at home. It's disappointing not to get any points tonight. The boys put in a lot of effort out there and we fell short. Next week's important but there won't be any issues about motivation."